I think it would interfer with the water's ability to wick up.

Most possibly it is not an algae build up but mineral build up that interferes with wick working. Anyway - if it is too early to repot a violet, just run a new wick through the pot with a help of a croshet hook or just a piece of wire with a loop on the end. In my experience the mason twine gets salted easily, the knitting thread doesn't, just be sure it is synthetic and not wool. Another trick - is to soak the wick in a water with a drop of a dish soap before threading it through the pot. Sometimes new wicks just do not want to get wet.

irina

Thanks very much for the info!
And thank you, Irina, for the tips. I always learn so much from you!

~ Robin